{"id":52236,"date":"2025-09-15T11:43:10","date_gmt":"2025-09-15T11:43:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pakistanintheworld.pk\/live\/?p=52236"},"modified":"2025-09-15T11:43:10","modified_gmt":"2025-09-15T11:43:10","slug":"eco-tourism-at-its-finest-ethiopias-wanchi-leads-africas-green-travel-revival-by-ambassador-dr-jemal-beker-abdula","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pakistanintheworld.pk\/live\/eco-tourism-at-its-finest-ethiopias-wanchi-leads-africas-green-travel-revival-by-ambassador-dr-jemal-beker-abdula\/","title":{"rendered":"Eco-Tourism at its finest: Ethiopia\u2019s Wanchi leads Africa\u2019s Green Travel Revival By Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"By Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ethiopia, long known as the Cradle of Humanity, is rising as a unique global tourism destination\u2014inviting the world to explore its ancient roots, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant culture. Among its many treasures, Wanchi, a breathtaking eco-tourism site in the Oromia region, stands out as a symbol of Ethiopia\u2019s new tourism vision: one that blends natural beauty, community participation, and sustainable development.<\/p>\n

At the heart of this transformation is Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, whose nationwide tourism initiatives\u2014including \u201cDine for Nation\u201d (launched in 2020) and \u201cDine for Generation\u201d (in 2023)\u2014have turned tourism into a central pillar of Ethiopia\u2019s development agenda. These programs were designed not only to promote economic growth but to highlight Ethiopia\u2019s cultural identity, ecological richness, and historic value on the world stage.<\/p>\n

The \u201cDine for Nation\u201d project introduced three major tourism development zones: Gorgora in the Amhara region, Koysha and Halala Kella in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples\u2019 Region, and Wanchi in Oromia.<\/p>\n

Let me take this opportunity to introduce the people of Pakistan the Wanchi that has attracted broad domestic financial support and gained international recognition as a standout model for African eco-tourism.<\/p>\n

Wanchi\u2019s setting is nothing short of spectacular. Located within Oromia National Regional State, the area thrives on agriculture and tourism. With its lush greenery, crater lake, and highland scenery, Wanchi delivers an experience that refreshes both body and spirit. It is a place where peace meets natural majesty, offering a deep sense of serenity to all who visit.<\/p>\n

In 2021, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) officially recognized Wanchi as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the world, praising its exceptional environmental stewardship, preservation of local culture, and community-led development. This recognition marked a high point in Ethiopia\u2019s tourism revival\u2014and confirmed that rural destinations like Wanchi can lead Africa\u2019s tourism narrative.<\/p>\n

A short visit to Wanchi offers more than visual beauty\u2014it is a deep cultural and emotional journey. Managed by Ethiopian Skylight-IJA Developers, and supported by the Wanchi Eco-Tourism Association (WETA), the region combines traditional hospitality with modern comfort. Tourists experience warm community engagement, locally sourced food, and sustainable services that reflect the spirit of the region.<\/p>\n

\"\"During a recent visit, I had the honour of accompanying H.E. Hon. Samakab Abdikadir, Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives, to Wanchi. Our journey began from Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, through scenic green corridors shaped by the Green Legacy Initiative\u2014one of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed\u2019s landmark environmental programs. Along the route, we saw not only natural beauty, but the tangible results of Ethiopia\u2019s national reform plan\u2014better infrastructure, sustainable development, and a shared sense of national pride.<\/p>\n

The Green Legacy Initiative has transformed both urban and rural landscapes. Billions of trees have been planted, greening the roadsides and farmlands from Addis Ababa to remote areas like Wanchi. These efforts have contributed to a cleaner environment, enhanced biodiversity, and stronger rural economies\u2014making the tourism experience both sustainable and enriching.<\/p>\n

Wanchi is not an isolated success. Ethiopia is filled with tourism jewels waiting to be explored. From the mighty Blue Nile Falls\u2014known as Tis Abay or Tis Issat (\u201cSmoke of Fire\u201d)\u2014to the serene Lake Tana, Ethiopia\u2019s waterscapes are legendary. Lake Tana, the country\u2019s largest lake and source of the Blue Nile, is home to ancient monasteries and religious manuscripts, adding a spiritual and historical dimension to its natural beauty.<\/p>\n

The country is also home to several other spectacular waterfalls, including Ajecho, Sokei, Awash, and Barta. Barta Falls, located in the Kaffa region\u2014globally known as the birthplace of coffee\u2014is especially symbolic. The name \u201ccoffee\u201d itself originates from \u201cKaffa,\u201d and in Ethiopia, coffee is more than a drink\u2014it is a way of life and a tool of diplomacy. The region hosts a National Coffee Museum and a growing coffee research hub, blending tourism with agriculture and education.<\/p>\n

Ethiopia\u2019s tourism offerings go far beyond nature. As the site of major paleoanthropological discoveries, the country has earned the title \u201cLand of Origins\u201d. Visitors from around the globe come to see the very places where the earliest human ancestors once walked. Few destinations can claim such a powerful narrative that ties humanity together.<\/p>\n

The government\u2019s investment in these diverse tourism sectors has been deliberate and strategic. Under the Dine for Generation program, each of Ethiopia\u2019s federal constituencies has been encouraged to develop tourism projects that highlight local traditions and natural features. This local-global approach ensures inclusivity and promotes Ethiopia\u2019s soft power globally.<\/p>\n

The Prime Minister\u2019s leadership has not only supported these projects financially and politically\u2014it has also leveraged Ethiopia\u2019s diplomatic strength, with embassies and ambassadors playing a key role in promoting the country\u2019s tourism potential abroad. As an envoy, I consider it both a responsibility and a privilege to help showcase Ethiopia\u2019s wealth of attractions to the world.<\/p>\n

Ethiopian Embassy Islamabad Celebrates \u2018Enkutatash\u2019 & GERD Inauguration in Grand Manner with Participation of Chairman Senate , Ministers of Defence, IT, Climate, Culture & Other<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n